Thunder God Vine
Tripterygium wilfordii
Tripterygium wilfordii, commonly known as thunder god vine, is a traditional plant used in Chinese medicine. Its use traditionally extends to treating rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions, though specific applications vary widely among practitioners. Scientific evidence suggests that triptolide, a compound derived from Tripterygium wilfordii, may have anti-cancer properties when combined with irinotecan, showing enhanced activity in human colon cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, the plant's combination with Caulis Sinomenii has demonstrated greater reductions in inflammatory markers and improvements in joint function compared to the herbs alone. Research also indicates potential antiviral effects and benefits for neuroinflammation associated with Alzheimer’s disease through mechanisms involving CD33 inhibition. No major safety concerns or drug interactions have been recorded, but further research is needed to fully understand its therapeutic applications and potential side effects.
- Best evidence
- B
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- The combination of irinotecan and triptolide enhanced anti-cancer activities in human colon cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo by increasing apoptosis.
- The combination of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F and Caulis Sinomenii with traditional Chinese medicine directed drug delivery showed greater reductions in inflammatory markers and improvements in joint function compared to the herbs alone.
- This study reviews the traditional use and chemical profile of Tripterygium wilfordii, highlighting its terpenoids with potential antiviral effects.
- Eight new compounds were isolated from Tripterygium wilfordii, showing some anti-inflammatory activity in cell models.
- Triptolide reduces cholesterol synthesis and alleviates neuroinflammation by inhibiting CD33 in Alzheimer's disease, potentially through the CD33/SHP-1/JAK1/STAT6 pathway.
- Celastrol inhibited atherosclerosis in mice and macrophages by reducing pyroptosis through TLR4/STAT3/NLRP3 pathway modulation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Thunder God Vine?
Thunder God Vine (Tripterygium wilfordii) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Thunder God Vine?
6 sourced findings are recorded for Thunder God Vine; the strongest carries evidence grade B. For example: The combination of irinotecan and triptolide enhanced anti-cancer activities in human colon cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo by increasing apoptosis.
How strong is the evidence for Thunder God Vine?
The strongest finding for Thunder God Vine carries evidence grade B — moderate evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Thunder God Vine safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Thunder God Vine in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Thunder God Vine interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Thunder God Vine in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Thunder God Vine?
Thunder God Vine is also known as: Триптеригиум Вильфорда.
Is Thunder God Vine a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Influence of Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F and Caulis Sinomenii with traditional Chinese medicine directed drug delivery on CD3+, CD4+, CD8+ and joint function in rheumatoid arthritis patients. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Triptolide enhances anti-cancer activities of irinotecan in human colon cancer HT-29 cells in vitro and HT-29 cell xenograft tumor model in nude mice. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Celastrol ameliorates atherosclerosis by inhibiting TLR4/STAT3/NLRP3-mediated macrophage pyroptosis. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Anti-inflammatory sesquiterpenes and diterpenes from Tripterygium wilfordii Hook. f. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Taming the thunder god vine: Antiviral terpenoids from Tripterygium wilfordii. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Triptolide Reduces Cholesterol Synthesis and Alleviates Neuroinflammation by Inhibiting CD33 in Alzheimer's Disease Development and Progression. literature abstract metadata